One week to save on 2017 Central Okanagan dog licenses

Tuesday, Feb. 28 is the deadline for dog owners in the Central Okanagan to save.

That’s the last day for purchasing a new license or renewing an existing license for 2017 at the discounted rate of $20 for a dog that’s spayed or neutered and $60 if not.

Starting March 1, licenses go up the regular annual rate of $40 and $80.

“We’ve had a tremendous response to our free My Dog Matters program App," communications officer Bruce Smith says. "Over 3,200 dog owners have downloaded the App allowing them, once registered to renew their license on their mobile device. They can also go online with their favourite web browser and download the App."

“Having dog owners renew their license each year through the App saves the cost of mailing renewal notices and allows us to send messaging and reminders directly to them," Smith says. "The App also contains their digital ‘My Dog Matters’ Reward Program card. Showing it at more than 50 participating businesses provides an owner with special discounts and services as well as the ability to easily check participating retailer’s offers.”

Dog licenses can also be renewed and new licenses purchased anytime online at www.regionaldistrict.com/doglicense. Owners may also renew in person at the RDCO office in Kelowna, the Regional Dog Pound at 890 Weddell Pl. at any local government office or the Kelowna branch of the SPCA.

More than 24,000 dogs were licensed in the Central Okanagan at the end of 2016 up from just over 21,000 in 2015.

There’s plenty of information available about dog licensing and Responsible Dog Ownership in the Central Okanagan at regionaldistrict.com/dogs.

OPINION This week’s report is a reminder that in a little over a month, April 30, the majority of Canadians need to complete and file their 2017 Canada Income Tax returns to avoid potential late penalties.